Convertible versatile cane

ABSTRACT

A convertible, multi-tasking cane and a method of using the cane is disclosed. The cane includes a tubular cane body defining an internal cavity, a handle attached to a first end of the tubular cane body, and a base support attached to a second end of the tubular cane body. The handle is converts to a seat upon actuation of a seat release mechanism. The cane further includes an umbrella, a rechargeable battery located in the internal cavity and above the second end of the tubular cane body, and a tubular insulating structure overlapping a portion of the tubular cane body. The tubular insulating structure houses a plurality of electronic devices.

BACKGROUND Technical Field

The present disclosure is directed to a convertible, multi-functionalcane.

Description of the Related Art

The “background” description provided herein is for the purpose ofgenerally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work of thepresently named inventors, to the extent it is described in thisbackground section, as well as aspects of the description which may nototherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neitherexpressly or impliedly admitted as prior art against the presentinvention.

Walking canes are known to allow users to transfer some of their weightaway from their legs and facilitate balancing. Walking canes, also oftenembodied as trekking poles, pilgrim's staffs, hiking poles, hikingsticks, climbing steps, supporting invalids and the like are used for awide variety of purposes, such as clearing spider webs, parting thickbushes or grass obscuring a trail, providing support when going uphillor providing braking help when going downhill, serving as a balancepoint when crossing streams or rough terrain, ascertaining presence ofobstacles in the trail; testing mud and puddles for depth, and the like.In the recent years, various features have been developed for thewalking canes to address additional requirements of the users.

CN206560105U discloses an intelligent walking stick umbrella fortwo-in-one umbrella and crutch comprising a machine body, a skid-proofsupport mat, a lithium battery and a control button, the machine body isprovided with the skid-proof supporting pad, the middle part of themachine body is provided with a control host. The intelligent walkingstick provides an umbrella and a walking stick. The structure of thisintelligent device, however, is distinct from the current invention, asit lacks features such as a standing chair, the umbrella being enclosedwithin the stick, or a microcontroller that can automatically extend theumbrella based on a weather report received by the microcontroller viaWi-Fi or cellular data.

CN208366352U discloses a guide device including a stick, that a blinduser can use to detect a front barrier, which includes real-timebroadcasting of current location information and traffic information.The guide device includes a processor, a camera, a distance measuringmodule, a receiver, and communicates with the blind user by a speaker.The guide device includes communications circuitry to connect sensedinformation to a remote management server. The structure of the guidedevice, however, is distinct from the current invention, as it lacksfeatures such as a convertible versatile cane including a handle whichcan be converted to a standing chair and an umbrella enclosed within thestick. Additionally, the guiding device does not disclose amicrocontroller that can automatically extend the umbrella based on aweather report received by the microcontroller via Wi-Fi or cellulardata.

IN201921042943A discloses a method for content driven automaticretraction of a shade cover which uses machine learning/deep learning topredict the type of objects placed under the shade, and based on thetype of objects identified, and based on a predicted weather forecastautomatically opens/moves/closes the shade ac to protect the objectsfrom unfavorable weather. However, the shade cover lacks features suchas a convertible versatile cane including a handle which can beconverted to a standing chair or an umbrella enclosed within the stick.Additionally, this reference does not disclose a microcontroller thatcan automatically extend the umbrella based on a weather report receivedby the microcontroller via Wi-Fi or cellular data.

US20140060598A1 discloses a walking stick chair including a main stick,a seat unit, a support unit, and a linking unit. The main stick includesan elongated rod body having opposite upper and lower ends, ahook-shaped handle portion connected to the upper end of the rod body, afoot portion connected to the lower end of the rod body, a resilienthook member disposed near the handle portion, and a plurality ofangularly spaced-apart grooves formed in an outer surface of the rodbody and extending in a longitudinal direction of the rod body. Thestructure of the walking stick chair, however, does not disclosefeatures such as a standing chair or the umbrella being enclosed withinthe stick. On the contrary, in this reference, the umbrella is disposedoutside and surrounding the main stick. Additionally, the walking stickchair does not disclose a microcontroller that can automatically extendthe umbrella based on a weather report received by the microcontrollervia wi-fi or cellular data.

“AgeGracefully Smart Umbrella Walking Stick (Essential Handle WithManual Alarm)” describes an integrated walking stick can be withdrawnwhen need to use it independently. The integrated walking stick includeshigh power energy saving integrated LED lights. The smart umbrellawalking stick includes a 360-degree pivoting head that allows a widerange of pivoting strike angle, a USB charging cable, a UV protectioncanopy to cover the user from being exposed to harmful UV rays, ahigh-density fabric for fast water dispersion, and a steel ferrule tipfor extra strength and durability. The structure of this smart umbrellawalking stick, however, does not disclose features such as a standingchair or the umbrella being enclosed within the stick. Additionally, thesmart umbrella walking stick does not disclose a microcontroller thatcan automatically extend the umbrella based on a weather report receivedby the microcontroller via wi-fi or cellular data.

Each of the aforementioned references suffers from one or moredrawbacks, such as failure to provide multifunctionality of the cane,thereby hindering their adoption.

Accordingly, it is one object of the present disclosure to provide amultitasking multifunctional cane that is simple and compact withrespect to construction, portable with respect to use, and userfriendly. The multitasking multifunctional cane has a handle which isconfigured to convert to a seat when desired by the user, an umbrellathat can be deployed from within the cane, and a camera unit configuredto capture the surrounding and determine potential hazards based on thecaptured pictures.

SUMMARY

In an exemplary embodiment, a convertible multi-tasking cane isdisclosed. The convertible multi-tasking cane includes a tubular canebody defining an internal cavity, a handle attached to a first end ofthe tubular cane body, and a base support attached to a second end ofthe tubular cane body. The handle is configured to convert to a seatupon actuation of a seat release mechanism. The convertiblemulti-tasking cane further includes an umbrella, a rechargeable batterylocated in the internal cavity and above the second end of the tubularcane body, and a tubular insulating structure overlapping a portion ofthe tubular cane body. The tubular insulating structure houses aplurality of electronic devices.

In another exemplary embodiment, a method of using the convertiblemulti-tasking cane is disclosed. The method includes actuating an ON/OFFswitch to turn ON the convertible multi-tasking cane, walking whileholding a handle of the convertible multi-tasking cane, and sitting on aseat formed by unfolding the handle of the convertible multi-taskingcane when not walking. A base of the convertible multi-tasking cane issupported by a ground surface. The method further includes protecting,by an umbrella, a user from a rain shower or sunlight by actuating anumbrella release switch located on the convertible multi-tasking cane toextend an umbrella shaft through an opening defined at a center of theseat or the handle, causing a plurality of ribs connected to theumbrella shaft to extend upwards and out from the umbrella shaft, andunfurling a flexible sheet attached to the plurality of ribs.

In another exemplary embodiment, a convertible multi-tasking cane systemis disclosed. The system includes a tubular cane body having an internalcavity, a handle attached to a first end of the tubular cane body, and abase support attached to a second end of the tubular cane body. Thehandle is configured to convert to a seat upon actuation of a seatrelease mechanism. The system further includes an umbrella having afolded configuration and an open configuration. In the foldedconfiguration, an umbrella shaft is enclosed within the internal cavity,umbrella ribs are folded against the umbrella shaft, a rib support islocated at a first position. In the open configuration, the umbrellashaft, the ribs, and the rib support extend through an opening in thehandle and/or the seat, the ribs are extended away from the umbrellashaft by an angle in a range of about 60 degrees to about 90 degrees andthe rib support is located at a second position. The first position isat a greater distance from an umbrella tip than the second position. Thesystem further includes a rechargeable battery located in the internalcavity and above the second end of the tubular cane body, and a tubularinsulating structure overlapping a portion of the tubular cane body. Thetubular insulating structure houses a plurality of electronic devicesincluding a microcontroller, an alarm unit, an LED display, a WiFi unit,a Bluetooth unit, an MP3 player, a GPS receiver, a USB port, a camera, aradio, an earphone jack, a plurality of LED units, a speaker, a powerinput port configured to supply power to recharge the rechargeablebattery, and a micro subscriber identity module (SIM) port. Themicrocontroller is operatively connected to the alarm unit, the LEDdisplay, the WiFi unit, the Bluetooth unit, the MP3 player, the GPSreceiver, the USB port, the camera, the radio, the earphone jack, theplurality of LED lights, the speaker, the rechargeable battery, and themicro SIM port. The microcontroller is configured to transmit andreceive wireless communications through at least one of the WiFi unit,the Bluetooth unit, the GPS receiver, and a SIM card inserted in themicro SIM port.

The foregoing general description of the illustrative embodiments andthe following detailed description thereof are merely exemplary aspectsof the teachings of this disclosure and are not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete appreciation of this disclosure and many of theattendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the samebecomes better understood by reference to the following detaileddescription when considered in connection with the accompanyingdrawings, wherein:

FIG. 1A shows a convertible multi-tasking cane with a handle, accordingto certain embodiments;

FIG. 1B shows the convertible multi-tasking cane with the handleconverted to a seat, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the convertible multi-tasking cane withthe seat open, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 2A is an exemplary illustration of a cross-section of theconvertible multi-tasking cane having an umbrella disposed therein,according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 2B is an exemplary illustration of an umbrella release mechanismprovided in the convertible multi-tasking cane, in a) a retracted state,and b) a deployed state, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 2C is an exemplary illustration of the cross-section of theconvertible multi-tasking cane showing the umbrella in deployedcondition, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 3A is an exemplary illustration of a perspective view of a portionof the convertible multi-tasking cane, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 3B is a block diagram of an operating system of the convertiblemulti-tasking cane;

FIG. 4A is an exemplary flowchart of a method for deploying theumbrella, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 4B is an exemplary flowchart of a method for imaging thesurrounding environment, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 5A is an exemplary flowchart of a method for identifying predators,according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 5B is an exemplary flowchart of a method for geolocating theconvertible multi-tasking cane, according to certain embodiments; and

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a non-limiting example of details ofcomputing hardware used in the computing system, according to certainembodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the drawings, like reference numerals designate identical orcorresponding parts throughout the several views. Further, as usedherein, the words “a,” “an” and the like generally carry a meaning of“one or more,” unless stated otherwise.

Furthermore, the terms “approximately,” “approximate,” “about,” andsimilar terms generally refer to ranges that include the identifiedvalue within a margin of 20%, 10%, or preferably 5%, and any valuestherebetween.

Aspects of this disclosure are directed to a convertible multi-taskingcane and methods for using the convertible multi-tasking cane. Theconvertible multi-tasking cane described herein may be usable by variousgroups of people including including the elderly, the handicapped,policemen, security personnel, sports personnel, backpackers, pilgrims,and people waiting in queues. The convertible multi-tasking cane of thepresent disclosure addresses general emergency, safety, communication,seating, and protection requirements of the user.

Referring to FIG. 1A, a convertible multi-tasking cane 100 isillustrated, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. For thepurpose of convenience, the convertible multi-tasking cane 100 ishereinafter referred to as “the cane 100” in the present disclosure. Thecane 100 includes a tubular cane body 102 defining an internal cavity104 (shown with a cut-section A-A′) extending between a first end 106and a second end 108 thereof. In a non-limiting example, the tubularcane body 102 may be made from wood, stainless steel, aluminum alloys,or a combination thereof. A handle 110 is attached to the first end 106of the tubular cane body 102 and a base support 112 is attached to thesecond end 108 of the tubular cane body 102. The handle 110 may bedesigned ergonomically for the comfort of a user using the cane 100. Inone aspect, the base support 112 may include a disc 114 and an indentingstructure 116, such as a hemispherical protrusion or a spike. Theindenting structure 116 may help stably position the cane 100 on aground surface. In another aspect, the base support 112 may be made ofrubber, cork, silicone, or a combination thereof.

The handle 110 is configured to convert to a seat upon actuation of aseat release mechanism 118. According to an aspect, the handle 110includes a central plate 120 located on the first end 106 of the tubularcane body 102, such that a plane of the central plate 120 isperpendicular to a length axis “L” of the tubular cane body 102. In anexample, the central plate 120 may be embodied as a rectangular or acircular plate and may be rigidly attached to the first end 106 of thetubular cane body 102, such that the central plate 120 extends laterallyon either sides or radially with respect to the first end 106 of thetubular cane body 102. In a non-limiting example, the central plate 120may be made of a metal, alloys, wood, reinforced plastic, or acombination thereof. A support plate 122 may be used to attach, forexample, fasten or weld, the central plate 120 to the first end 106 ofthe tubular cane body 102. Further, the handle 110 includes a firstrectangular metallic frame 124 connected to a first side 126 of thecentral plate 120 via a first hinge 128 and a second rectangularmetallic frame 130 connected to a second side 132 of the central plate120 via a second hinge 134, where the second side 132 is opposite to thefirst side 126. FIG. 1A shows a folded condition of the handle 110 inwhich the first rectangular metallic frame 124 and the secondrectangular metallic frame 130 are perpendicular to the plane of thecentral plate 120. The first rectangular metallic frame 124 and thesecond rectangular metallic frame 130 may be moved towards each other toconstitute a hand grip to allow the user to hold the handle 110. In afree state, that is when not held by the user, the first rectangularmetallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 mayremain perpendicular to the central plate 120, where a gap is definedtherebetween, as shown in FIG. 1A. Alternately, the first rectangularmetallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 mayfold against the central plate 120 for storage.

FIG. 1B illustrates an unfolded configuration of the handle 110. Thefirst rectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallicframe 130 are pivotally moved away from each other, with respect to thefirst hinge 128 and the second hinge 134, respectively, until the firstrectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame130 are in the plane of the central plate 120, thereby defining a seat111. In one aspect, the movement of the first rectangular metallic frame124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 with respect to thecentral plate 120 may be allowed upon actuation of the seat releasemechanism 118. The cane 100 may include a button (not shown) configuredto release the first rectangular metallic frame 124 and the secondrectangular metallic frame 130 from the folded position and retain thefirst rectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallicframe 130 in the plane of the central plate when the handle 110 isunfolded. In a non-limiting example, multiple clasping members may beactuated by the button to retain the first rectangular metallic frame124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 in the unfoldedcondition of the handle 110. As such, the button and the multipleclasping members may constitute the seat release mechanism 118. Multipleother embodiments are contemplated to achieve the functions of the seatrelease mechanism 118 described herein.

FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective view of the cane 100, in which thehandle 110 is converted to the seat 111. The handle 110 defines anopening 136 at a center of the central plate 120, and a flap (not shown)may be provided to cover the opening 136 to prevent dust from enteringinto the internal cavity 104. The first rectangular metallic frame 124includes a first inner frame edge 138 and a first outer frame edge 140,where the first inner frame edge 138 is coupled to the first side 126 ofthe central plate 120 via the first hinge 128. The second rectangularmetallic frame 130 includes a second inner frame edge 142 and a secondouter frame edge 144, where the second inner frame edge 142 is coupledto the second side 132 of the central plate 120 via the second hinge134. In the folded condition of the handle 110, that is when the firstrectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame130 are perpendicular to the central plate 120, the first outer frameedge 140 and the second outer frame edge 144 are located proximal toeach other to form a hand grip. To obtain the seat configuration, thefirst outer frame edge 140 and the second outer frame edge 144 are movedin a direction away from each other until both the outer edges are inplane with respect to the central plate 120. In one aspect of thepresent disclosure, the handle 110 may include a first flexible covering146 attached to the first rectangular metallic frame 124 and a secondflexible covering 148 attached to the second rectangular metallic frame130. In a non-limiting example, each of the first flexible covering 146and the second flexible covering 148 may be made of a fabric materialfilled with foam to provide comfortable seating. In another non-limitingexample, each of the first flexible covering 146 and the second flexiblecovering 148 may be made of upholstery textile fabrics, such as, but notlimited to, natural leather, artificial leather, polyester, rayon, wool,nylon, canvas, cotton, silk, linen, jute, velvet, tartan, gingham,poplin, charmeuse, corduroy, terrycloth, crepe, lame, bamboo, spandex,and a combination thereof.

FIG. 2A illustrates a cross-section of the cane 100. According to anaspect, the cane 100 includes a tubular insulating structure 202overlapping a portion of the tubular cane body 102. The central plate120 includes a bushing 204 configured to be inserted into the first end106 of the tubular cane body 102. For example, the bushing 204 may bepress fit against an inner surface of the interval cavity 104 at thefirst end 106 of the tubular cane body 102. As such, the central plate120 of the handle 110 may be rigidly attached to the tubular cane body102. The bushing 204 may be fastened to the support plate 122. Arechargeable battery 206 is located in the internal cavity 104,preferably above the second end 108 of the tubular cane body 102. In anexample, the rechargeable battery 206 may be provided as a lithiumbattery placed in a battery holder, which is capable of providingnecessary driving power for the operation of the multiple devices in thecane 100. Further, the cane 100 also includes an umbrella 208 stowedwithin the internal cavity 104. Specifically, FIG. 2A illustrates afirst configuration “U1” of the umbrella 208. The umbrella 208 includesan umbrella shaft 210 and a rib support 212 surrounding the umbrellashaft 210 which are configured to move over the umbrella shaft 210 alongthe length axis “L” of the tubular cane body 102 when the umbrella isdeployed.

The cane 100 also includes a spring 214 disposed within the internalcavity 104 and located on a spring seat 216 positioned above therechargeable battery 206. Specifically, the spring 214 is disposedcoaxially around the umbrella shaft 210. A spring stopper 218 providedin the internal cavity 104 is configured to retain the spring 214 in acompressed state, corresponding to the first configuration “U1” of theumbrella 208. An enlarged portion “B” of FIG. 2A is illustrated in FIG.2B depicting an exemplary umbrella release mechanism. The spring stopper218 is attached to the umbrella shaft 210. Referring to FIG. 2B(a), anumbrella lock 220 connected to the spring stopper 218 extends radiallyoutward, with respect to the length axis “L”, through a first cutout 222defined in the tubular cane body 102. In the first configuration “U1” ofthe umbrella 208, the umbrella lock 220 extends through the first cutout222 to retain the spring 214 in the compressed state. The cane 100further includes an umbrella release switch 224 extending radiallyoutward with respect to the length axis “L” through a second cutout 226defined in the tubular insulating structure 202. The umbrella releaseswitch 224 is aligned with the umbrella lock 220 and is made accessibleon an exterior surface of the tubular insulating structure 202. Abiasing member 228 is disposed between the umbrella release switch 224and the tubular cane body 102 to allow a retracting movement of theumbrella release switch 224 in the radial direction.

In order to deploy the umbrella 208, a physical push force “F” may beapplied to the umbrella release switch 224 which is configured toactuate the umbrella lock 220. The physical push force “F” causes inwardmovement of the umbrella release switch 224 until the umbrella releaseswitch 224 is flush with the exterior surface of the tubular insulatingstructure 202, and simultaneously causes inward radial movement of theumbrella lock 220. Such inward radial movement allows disengagement ofthe umbrella lock 220 from the first cutout 222, thereby eliminating anyrestriction for movement of the spring stopper 218 within the internalcavity 104 (see FIG. 2B(b)). In one embodiment, a release button may bepositioned on the exterior surface of the tubular insulating structure202 which is configured to receive the physical push force “F” andactuate the umbrella release switch 224. By virtue of a spring biasingforce, the spring 214 expands upon disengagement of the umbrella lock220 from the first cutout 222, thereby allowing the spring stopper 218to move in a direction of spring expansion along the length axis “L” ofthe tubular cane body 102. Owing to the attachment between the umbrellashaft 210 and the spring stopper 218, the umbrella shaft 210 moves alongwith the spring stopper 218. In one aspect, allowable travel of theumbrella shaft 210 may be equal to an expanded length of the spring 214.For example, when the spring stopper 218 is coupled to a free end of thespring 214, the spring stopper 218 and the umbrella shaft 210 areallowed to travel till the spring 214 is fully expanded to its freelength. As used herein, the term “free length” refers to a length of thespring 214 without any axial force or load applied thereon. In anotheraspect, the allowable length of the umbrella shaft 210 may be based on amomentum developed by the spring stopper 218 upon releasing the spring214. For example, when the spring stopper 218 is not coupled to the freeend of the spring 214, the spring stopper 218 and the umbrella shaft 210may be allowed to travel a greater distance than in the situation wherethe spring 214 is confined to a travel length defined by the position ofthe spring stopper 218, based on momentum developed due to the releaseof the spring 214 from the compressed state. In both such cases, travelof the spring stopper 218, and hence the umbrella shaft 210, may berestricted by a flange 230 (shown in FIG. 2A) located within theinternal cavity 104, which otherwise may lead to disengagement of theumbrella shaft 210 from the tubular cane body 102. Simultaneously, oncethe physical push force “F” is nullified, the umbrella release switch224 returns to an initial position that is accessible to the user, byvirtue of the biasing force of the biasing member 228.

FIG. 2C illustrates a second configuration of the umbrella 208. Due tothe movement of the umbrella shaft 210 along the length axis “L”, theumbrella 208 may be deployed to achieve the second configuration. Theumbrella 208 includes a plurality of ribs 232 connected to a rib holder234 that is connected to and surrounding a first end 236 of the umbrellashaft 210. Further, a flexible sheet 238 is attached to the ribs 232. Arib holder stopper 240 is attached proximal to the first end 236 of theumbrella shaft 210. Upon movement of the umbrella shaft 210 in adirection outward and along the length axis “L”, the flexible sheet 238of the umbrella 208 is caused to move through the opening 136 in thehandle 110. The rib support 212 moves over the umbrella shaft 210 andpushes the rib holder 234 in the direction of movement thereof. The ribholder stopper 240 restricts the rib holder 234 to move further, therebyachieving expansion of the flexible sheet 238 and creating a shade forthe user. In one aspect, the ribs 232 may extend away from the umbrellashaft 210 by an angle in a range of about 60 degrees to about 90degrees. A button 242 provided on the umbrella shaft 210 locks the ribholder 234 in position once the rib holder 234 abuts the rib holderstopper 240. The button 242 may be spring actuated and may hence bemoved radially inward, with respect to the length axis “L”, by the userand a corresponding outward retractable movement may be supported by thespring. The second configuration is defined by the spring 214 beingreleased from the compressed state; the umbrella shaft 210, the ribs232, the rib support 212 extending through the opening 136 defined inthe handle 110; the flexible sheet 238 extending away from the umbrellashaft 210 along with the ribs 232; and the rib support 212 in a secondposition. As such, it would be apparent that the first configuration ofthe umbrella 208 refers to a condition where the ribs 232 are foldedagainst the umbrella shaft 210, the rib support 212 is located at afirst position, and the umbrella shaft 210 is located within theinternal cavity 104 of the tubular cane body 102. The first position ofthe rib support 212 is at a greater distance from the first end 236 ofthe umbrella shaft 210 when compared to that of the second position ofthe rib support 212.

When the user applies the physical push force “F” on the umbrellarelease switch 224, care may be taken to locate the handle 110 away fromthe user to avoid an injury to the user during deployment of theumbrella 208. The shade created by the umbrella 208 can protect the userfrom sunshine and rain. Although a distance between the umbrella 208 andthe seat 110 is less in FIG. 2C, it should be understood that suchrepresentation is only for the purpose of illustration and should not beconstrued as limiting. Based on the free length of the spring 214 andthe length of the umbrella shaft 210, the umbrella 208 may be deployedto a greater distance from the seat 110, such that the user maycomfortably sit on the seat 110 while being protected by the umbrella208. In an example, in the deployed condition, ends of the flexiblesheet 238 of the umbrella 208 may define a shade measuring about 30 cmin diameter.

In order to reinstall the umbrella 208 into the internal cavity 104 ofthe tubular cane body 102, the button 242 may be pushed radially inwardwith respect to the length axis “L” to release the rib holder 234 fromthe locked position. Such release of the rib holder 234 causes the ribholder 234 to in a direction towards the tubular cane body 102, therebyloosening the flexible sheet 238. Further, the flexible sheet 238 may bemoved in a direction towards the umbrella shaft 210, thereby allowingthe umbrella 208 to be folded against the umbrella shaft 210. Once asize of the umbrella 208 at the flexible sheet 238 portion is sufficientto be inserted through the opening 136 in the handle 110, the umbrella208 may be pushed into the internal cavity 104. As a result, theumbrella lock 220 and the spring stopper 218 moves in a direction inwardwith respect to the second end 108 of the tubular cane body 102. Furtherinward movement causes the umbrella lock 220 to engage with the firstcutout 222, thereby positioning the spring 214 in the compressed state.Components and corresponding functions described herein for the purposeof deploying the umbrella 208 should not be construed as limited. Anynumber of components may be added or subtracted with respect to thosedescribed herein to achieve the deployment of the umbrella 208 from thetubular cane body 102 upon the physical push force “F” on the umbrellarelease switch 224.

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the cane 100. Thetubular insulating structure 202 of FIG. 2C is configured to house aplurality of electronic devices. The plurality of electronic devicesincludes, but is not limited to, a microcontroller 302, an alarm unit304, an LED display 306, a WiFi unit 308, a Bluetooth unit 310, a musicplayer 312 (such as MP3/MP4 player), a USB port 314, a camera 316, aradio 318, an earphone port 320, a plurality of LED units 356, 358, aspeaker 324, a power input port 326 configured to supply power torecharge the rechargeable battery 206, a micro subscriber identitymodule (SIM) port 328, a geolocation (GPS) receiver 330, a camera switch332, and an LED projector 334.

FIG. 3B illustrates an exemplary block diagram of an operating system336 of the cane 100, according to an aspect of the present disclosure.As seen in FIG. 3B, the operating system 336 includes a power device338, a communication device 340, an entertainment device 342, a safetydevice 344, an audio notification device 346 and a capture and display(CAD) device 352. The microcontroller 302, which is embodied as acomputing device 600 described with respect to FIG. 6 , is operativelyconnected to each module and hence connected to each of the plurality ofelectronic devices. In some aspects, the microcontroller 302 may beembodied as a single metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) integrated circuit(IC) chip.

The power device 338 includes an ON/OFF switch 348, the rechargeablebattery 206, the power input port 326, and a charging indicator 350.Once the ON/OFF switch 348 is pushed to the “ON mode”, the cane 100 maybe actuated to a “power ON” condition and may be capable of executingmultiple functions. The “power ON” condition supplies electric power tothe microcontroller 302 and/or each of the plurality of electronicdevices. Electrical wiring between the rechargeable battery 206, themicrocontroller 302, and each of the plurality of electronic devices maybe routed through the tubular insulating structure 202. In someembodiments, the microcontroller 302 may be connected to each of theplurality of electronic devices via a pin of the microcontroller 302,and the microcontroller 302 may be configured to power the electronicdevice via the corresponding pin. As such, the ON/OFF switch 348 isconfigured to connect the rechargeable battery 206 with themicrocontroller 302 in the “ON mode” or disconnect the rechargeablebattery 206 from the microcontroller 302 in an “OFF mode”.

The communication device 340 includes, but is not limited to, the WiFiunit 308, which is based on the IEEE 802.11 standards, the Bluetoothunit 310, the SIM port 328 housing a SIM card, the GPS receiver 330, andother devices capable of establishing personal area network (PAN), orNear-me Area Network (NAN), or other known wireless communicationnetworks. With the aid of the communication device 340, themicrocontroller 302 may be configured to receive data, analyze the data,and transmit the data to other electronic devices in the cane 100 ortransmit the data to remotely located fixed terminals, such as desktopcomputer, or mobile device terminals, such as smartphone, PDA, andlaptop computer, via a network 612 (see FIG. 6 ) established by the SIMcard. The SIM port 328 may be configured to accommodate a standard SIMcard, micro SIM card, or a nano SIM card. In some embodiments, the SIMport 328 may be configured as a dual SIM port to receive two SIM cardsof either same kind or different kinds. In some embodiments, the SIMport 328 may be configured as a code division multiple access (CDMA)unit. The SIM card may be associated with any of known digital cellulartechnologies, such as Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM)including Circuit Switched Data (CSD), General Packet Radio Service(GPRS), Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE), evolved EDGE;digital Advanced Mobile Phone Systems (AMPS) including Cellular DigitalPacket Data (CDPD); cdmaONE including Circuit Switched Data (CSD); 3Gnetwork including W-CDMA, TD-CDMA, TD-SCDMA, High Speed Packet Access(HSPA), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed UplinkPacket Access (HSUPA), Evolved High Speed Packet Access (HSPA+); 4Gnetworks including Long Term Evolution (LTE) Advanced, Long TermEvolution (LTE) Advanced Pro; or 5G network including 5G NR (New Radio).Further, the GPS receiver 330 is configured to detect location of thecane 100 and time.

The entertainment device 342 includes, but not limited to, the musicplayer 312, the speaker 324, the earphone port 320, the radio 318, andthe USB port 314. With the aid of the entertainment device 342, themicrocontroller 302 may be configured to receive multiple data filesrelated to entertainment, such as music files in any of the knownformats, for example, not limited to, MP3, MP4, WAV, and the like. Musicassociated with the data file may be played by the music player 312 andthe user may hear the music via the speaker 324. Alternatively, the usermay use earphones to listen the music by connecting the earphones to theearphone port 320. In some aspects, the Bluetooth unit 310 may be usedto wirelessly connect the earphones with the music player 312. The radio318 allows the user to listen to audio broadcasts with aid of broadcastchannel browsing associated with AM/FM modes. As the user walks with thecane 100, the radio 318 may be configured to allow the user to accessmultiple radio broadcast stations available at location of the user. Insome aspects, functioning of the radio 318 may be assisted by the GPSreceiver 330. The USB port 314 may be embodied as one of, but notlimited to, USB A, USB B, USB mini-A, USB mini-B, USB micro-A, USBmicro-B, USB 3.0 A SS, USB 3.0 B SS, USB 3.0 micro-B, USB-C. With theaid of the USB port 314, the microcontroller 302 may be configured torecognize an external device connected to the cane 100 and allowtransfer of media files from the external device, such as a data storagedevice, to a memory 604 (see FIG. 6 ) of the microcontroller 302. Themusic player 312 may be allowed to access the media files from thememory 604 of the microcontroller 302. In some aspects, themicrocontroller 302 may be configured to allow pairing of the user'ssmartphone with the cane 100 via the Bluetooth unit 310, therebyallowing the user to play songs stored in the user's smartphone. In someaspects, the user may be allowed to answer phone calls through theearphones when the earphone is paired with the cane 100.

The CAD device 352 includes the camera 316, the camera switch 332, theLED display 306, and the LED projector 334 connected to the camera 316and the LED display 306. With the aid of the CAD device 352, themicrocontroller 302 may be configured to capture images of thesurroundings and display the images on the LED display 306. In anon-limiting example, the LED display 306 may be a high definition orultra-high definition touchscreen display unit to allow the user toclearly see the images during sunshine. Specifically, themicrocontroller 302 may be configured to operate the camera 316 tocapture images of the environment around the user. However, suchoperation of the camera 316 may be possible when the camera switch 332is in ON mode. In some aspects, the microcontroller 302 may beconfigured to capture the images of the environment based on an inputfrom the user. Positioning the camera switch 332 to the ON mode may beindicative of the user's intention to capture images of the environment.At other times, the camera 316 may remain switched off or in standbymode, thereby saving battery power. In some aspects, based on thelocation detected by the GPS receiver 330, the microcontroller 302 maytag the location and time of capture to the captured images. The imagesmay be stored in the memory 604 of the microcontroller 302. Options forediting the images or deleting one or more images may be provided to theuser on the LED display 306. Additionally, the microcontroller 302 maybe configured to display the location and time on the LED display 306and periodically update the location and time as detected by the GPSreceiver 330. Optionally, the microcontroller 302 may be configured toperiodically generate a message including the location and time detectedby the GPS receiver 330 and transmit the message to the user'ssmartphone via the Bluetooth unit 310.

In some aspects, the camera switch 332 includes a plurality of settings,such as a first setting, a second setting, a third setting, and a fourthsetting. For example, the camera switch 332 may be rotated to differentpositions to achieve each of these settings. The first setting of thecamera switch 332 is configured to actuate the camera 316 to take apicture of the surrounding environment. As such, the first setting ofthe camera switch 332 may be understood as a position of the cameraswitch 332 different from a position or orientation corresponding toactuating the camera 316 to switch ON mode. The second setting of thecamera switch is configured to actuate the LED projector 334 to projectthe picture, the third setting is configured to display the picture onthe LED display 306, and the fourth setting is configured to store thepicture in the memory 604 of the microcontroller 302.

The safety device 344 includes the plurality of LED units 322 having afirst set of LED units 356 located between the umbrella release switch224 and the rechargeable battery 206, and a second set of LED units 358located between the handle 110 and the microcontroller 302. The firstset of LED units 356 and the second set of LED units 358 are configuredto turn on, that is illuminate, when the ON/OFF switch 348 is in the “ONmode” and remain turned off in the “OFF mode” of the ON/OFF switch 348.In some aspects, the first set of LED units 356 may be different fromthat of the second set of LED units 358 with respect to eitherillumination color and/or illumination brightness. In some aspects,positioning the ON/OFF switch 348 to a certain orientation mayselectively turn on the first set of LED units 356 or the second set ofLED units 358. In some aspects, the ON/OFF switch 348 may be pressed apredefined number of times to change the illumination pattern andillumination brightness of the first set of LED units 356 and the secondset of LED units 358. The first set of LED units 356 may illuminate aregion around the foot of the user and may illuminate a path along whichthe user walks. Further, a first predator LED unit 360 is locatedadjacent to the first set of LED units 356 and a second predator LEDunit 362 is located adjacent to the second set of LED units 358. In someaspects, each of the first predator LED unit 360 and the second predatorLED unit 362 may be configured to generate a bright red color constantlyor in a flashing manner. The number of sets of LED units andcorresponding locations described herein are only for the purpose ofdescription of the present disclosure and should not be construed aslimited. Rather, additional sets of LED units may be added or subtractedfrom those described and illustrated herein, albeit with few variationsto configurations of LED units and corresponding placement of the LEDunits.

The microcontroller 302 is configured to detect the first setting of thecamera switch 332, store the captured picture(s) in the memory 604thereof, and analyze the picture(s) to determine whether a predator isapproaching. For the purpose of such analysis, the microcontroller 302may be configured to, for example, perform an image analysis by parsingthe pictures stored in the memory 604, and detect salient features fromthe parsed image fragments, and recognize a type of object based onanalysis of pixel characteristics of the detected salient features. Insome aspects, recognition model to analyze the images may be embeddedinto the microcontroller 302. Based on such recognition model, themicrocontroller 302 may be configured to determine whether a mass beinganalyzed in the parsed image fragments is an object present in theenvironment or the predator. Additionally, the microcontroller 302 maybe configured to determine a rate of movement of the mass identified inthe captured picture with respect to the location of the cane 100. Whenthe rate of movement and/or distance between the mass and the cane 100change during a certain time period, the microcontroller 302 may beconfigured to identify the mass as the predator. In response to suchidentification, the first predator LED unit 360 and the second predatorLED unit 362 may be actuated, by the microcontroller 302, to flash redlight. Simultaneously, the speaker 324 may be actuated, by themicrocontroller 302, to generate a noise in a decibel range of about 140dB to about 200 dB.

The audio notification device 346 includes the alarm unit 304. In someaspects, the alarm unit 304 may be configured to generate a hapticfeedback or haptic indication to the user, besides generation an audionotification. Based on the analysis of the picture, when the predator isdetected, the alarm unit 304 may be configured to provide the hapticindication to the user, whereby the user may be suggested to use an earplug or earphone since the noise of 80 dB and above may be uncomfortableor harmful to the user. In cases where the user is listening to songsvia the music player 312 or radio 318, the microcontroller 302 may beconfigured to temporarily stop the operation of the music player 312 orradio 318, when presence of the predator is detected. Additionally, thetime and the current location detected by the GPS receiver 330 may betagged to the picture(s), and may be shared, via the network 612, withat least one of the smartphone, and a remote device, such as a remotemonitor, and a remote receiver consisting of the fixed terminals and themobile device terminals. In some aspects, the safety device 344 may alsoinclude a compass 364 to guide the user to walk towards a requireddestination. In an embodiment, the compass 364 may be located on asurface of the tubular insulating structure 202. In another embodiment,the compass 364 may be located on the central plate 120 of the handle100, beside the opening 136 defined therein. Features of the cane 100,such as deployment of the umbrella 208 from the cane 100, the compass364, and the actuation of the predator LED units 360, 362 areadvantageous to users.

In some aspects, when the cane 100 is communicably paired with theuser's smartphone, the microcontroller 302 is configured to receive aweather report through at least one of the Bluetooth unit 310 and theWiFi unit 308. During instances where the cane 100 is not paired withthe user's smartphone, the microcontroller 302 may obtain weather reportusing network established by the SIM card. The microcontroller 302 maybe configured to analyze the weather report and determine, based on theanalysis, whether a rain shower is predicted within a pre-determinedtime period at the current location of the cane 100. When a rain showeris predicted, the microcontroller 302 may notify the user regardingdeployment of the umbrella 208 and may actuate the umbrella releaseswitch 224 to place the umbrella 208 in the second configuration. Thenotification to the user regarding the deployment of the umbrella 208may indicate the user to locate the handle 110 at a distance, so thatthe user is not harmed by the deployment of the umbrella 208. In oneaspect, the notification may be provided as an audio notification withair of the alarm unit 304 and the speaker 324. In another aspect, thenotification may be provided as a combination of the audio notificationand haptic indication. In yet another aspect, the LED display 306 mayshow a symbol to indicate the deployment of the umbrella 208 in additionto at least one of the audio notification and the haptic indication. Inyet another aspect, at least one of the first set of LED units 356 andthe second set of LED units 358 may be illuminated to notify the user,in addition to the audio notification and haptic indication. Thedeployment of the umbrella 208 may be possible in the foldedconfiguration of the handle 110 and the unfolded configuration of thehandle 110. The cane 100 embedded with the microcontroller 302 and theplurality of electronic devices is alternatively referred to as “theconvertible multi-tasking cane system 100” in the present disclosure. Tothis end, it will be understood that the cane 100 of the presentdisclosure includes a multifunctional and adaptable smart circuitcapable of enhancing user convenience, protecting the user from rainshower, sunlight, and predators, and conveniently and effectivelyproviding remote domestic help. Additionally, due to miniaturization ofthe electronic components, a light weighing cane may be achieved.

FIG. 4A shows a flowchart of a method 400 deploying the umbrella 208,according to an aspect of the present disclosure. The method 400 isdescribed in conjunction with FIG. 1A to FIG. 3B. In one aspect, at step402, the method 400 includes actuating the ON/OFF switch 348 to turn ONthe cane 100. At step 404, the method 400 includes walking while holdingthe handle 110 of the cane 100, where a base of the cane 100, such asthe base support 112, is supported on the ground surface. At step 406,the method 400 includes sitting on the seat 111 formed by unfolding thehandle 110, when not walking. At step 408, the method 400 includesprotecting, by the umbrella 208, the user from the rain shower orsunlight by actuating the umbrella release switch 224 located on thecane 100, to extend the umbrella shaft 210 through the opening 136defined at the center of the seat 111 or the handle 110, causing theplurality of ribs 232 connected to the umbrella shaft 210 to extendupwards and out from the umbrella shaft 210, and unfurling the flexiblesheet 238 attached to the plurality of ribs 232.

Although not specifically illustrated in FIG. 4A, the method 400 mayfurther include inserting the earphone jack into the earphone port 320defined in the cane 100. In some aspects, the method 400 may includewirelessly pairing the earphone with the cane 100. The method 400further includes turning on a radio switch located on the surface of thecane 100. In one aspect, an option to turn on the radio 318 may beprovided as a touch button in the LED display 306. In suchconfiguration, the method 400 includes receiving an input from the user,via the LED display 306 to turn on the radio 318. The method 400 furtherincludes listening to the radio 318 while walking or sitting on the seat111. In some aspects, the method 400 may include turning on an MP3player switch located on the surface of the cane 100 and listening tomusic stored on the music player 312 while walking or sitting on theseat 111. In some aspects, an option to turn on the music player 312 maybe provided as a touch button in the LED display 306 that is differentfrom the touch button of the radio 318. Such touch buttons may allow theuser to shift from radio 318 to the music player 312 when desired.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method ofoperating the cane 100 may be executed by the microcontroller 302. Forexample, the method includes receiving an input from the ON/OFF switch348 indicative of the “ON mode”, actuating the cane 100 to the “powerON” condition, receiving the weather report from one of the user'ssmartphone or a remote device when the cane 100 is in the “power ON”condition, determining occurrence of the rain shower within apredetermined time period at the location of the cane 100, notifying theuser regarding deployment of the umbrella 208 when the rain shower ispredicted within the predetermined time period, and actuating theumbrella release switch 224 to deploy the umbrella out of the cane 100.

FIG. 4B shows a flowchart of a method 450 for imaging the surroundingenvironment using the cane 100, according to yet another aspect of thepresent disclosure. In an example, the method 450 may be executed by themicrocontroller 302. At step 452, the method 450 includes actuating, bythe camera switch 332, the camera 316 to capture one or more pictures ofthe surrounding environment. At step 454, the method 450 includesdisplaying the picture(s) on the LED display 306. At step 456, themethod 450 includes displaying, by the LED projector 334, the picture(s)on a surface of the surrounding environment. In another embodiment, themethod 450, at step 456, may include displaying the picture(s) on theLED display 306. In yet another embodiment, the method 450, at step 456,may include displaying the picture(s) on the LED display 306 followed bydisplaying the picture(s) on the ground surface in front of the user. Insome embodiments, the picture(s) may be displayed simultaneously on theground surface and the LED display 306. At step 458, the method 450includes storing the picture(s) in the memory 604 of the microcontroller302. At step 460, the method 450 includes wirelessly transmitting thepictures(s) via at least one of the SIM card, the Bluetooth unit 310,and the WiFi unit 308. In some aspects, the steps 454, 456, and 458 maybe selectively executed by the microcontroller 302.

FIG. 5A shows a flowchart of a method 500 for identifying predatorsusing the cane 100, according to yet another aspect of the presentdisclosure. In an example, the method 500 may be executed by themicrocontroller 302. At step 502, the method 500 includes determining,based on time of day, whether the current time corresponds to eveninghours or night hours. The time of day may be determined by a clock ortimer located within the microcontroller 302 and/or through GPS receiver330. In some aspects, the method 500 may further include determining aweather condition, including presence of amount of sunlight and clouds,based on a weather report obtained by internet connectivity establishedthrough the SIM card in the SIM port 328. At step 504, the method 500includes actuating the plurality of LED units 322 when the current timeindicates evening hours or night hours based on the current location ofthe cane 100. At step 506, the method 500 includes periodicallyactuating the camera 316 to take pictures of the surroundingenvironment. At step 508, the method 500 includes analyzing the picturesto determine whether a predator is approaching towards the cane 100. Atstep 510, the method 500 includes actuating the first predator LED unit360 and the second predator LED unit 362 based on the analysis. In caseswhere the method 500 determines a mass in the picture(s) as an immovableobject, the step 510 may not be executed. At step 512, the method 500includes actuating the speaker 324 to generate a noise in a decibelrange of about 140 dB to about 200 dB based on actuating the firstpredator LED unit 360 and the second predator LED unit 362.

FIG. 5B illustrates a flowchart of a method 550 for geolocating the cane100, according to yet another aspect of the present disclosure. In anexample, the method 500 may be executed by the microcontroller 302. Atstep 552, the method 550 includes obtaining, by the GPS receiver 330,the current location of the cane 100 and the current time. As usedherein, the term “current location” refers either to the location of thecane 100 at an instance when the GPS receiver 330 sends a signal to themicrocontroller 302 or the location of the cane 100 when themicrocontroller 302 fetches data from the GPS receiver 330. At step 554,the method 550 includes displaying the current location and the currenttime on the LED display 306. At step 556, the method 550 includesperiodically generating the current location and the current time. Atstep 558, the method 550 includes determining a deviation in route whenthe current location deviates from a map route stored in themicrocontroller 302. For example, a predefined route for a desireddestination may be downloaded and saved in the memory 604 of themicrocontroller 302. The predefined route may be obtained as a data fileand may be transferred to the memory 604 of the microcontroller 302 froman external storage device, through the USB port 314. At step 560, themethod 550 includes actuating the alarm unit 304 when the currentlocation deviates from the map route. In some aspects, the step ofactuating the alarm unit 304 may include generating the hapticindication and the audio indication to the user to indicate thedeviation of the map route. Additionally, the method 550 may includedisplaying a notification regarding the deviation from the map route, onthe LED display 306. At step 562, the method 550 includes generatinginstructions to guide the user to an expected location, such as thedesired destination, on the map route. At step 564, the method 550includes broadcasting the instructions by actuating the speaker 324 toguide the user towards the desired destination from the deviated route.When the generated instructions include moving towards North, East, and

West directions, the compass 364 may assist the user. At step 566, themethod 550 includes wirelessly transmitting a message, includingcoordinates of the current location and current time, and the generatedinstructions by at least one of the Bluetooth unit 310, the WiFi unit308, and the SIM card.

For example, when the user is lost in pilgrimage place, at a touristplace, in a forest, at a countryside, or in the mountains, the cane 100of the present disclosure allows the user to communicate with a remoteperson or emergency help units by accessing the network connectivitythrough the SIM card. In some aspects, the cane 100 may also include amic to allow the user to record and convey voice messages. In someaspects, the alarm unit 304 may be configured to remind the user about aprayer time, medicine consuming time, and the like. Further, themicrocontroller 302 may be configured to request for a passcode, such aspassword, audio recognition, or face recognition, fingerprintrecognition, retina recognition, and the like, to prevent others fromhandling the cane 100. Such configuration may also prevent children fromusing the functionalities provided by the electronic devices of the cane100.

Next, further details of the hardware description of the microcontroller302 of FIG. 3 according to exemplary embodiments is described as acomputing device 600 with reference to FIG. 6 . In FIG. 6 , themicrocontroller 302 is a computing device which includes a CPU 602 whichperforms the processes described above/below. The process data andinstructions may be stored in the memory 604. These processes andinstructions may also be stored on a storage device 606, such as a harddrive (HDD) or portable storage medium or may be stored remotely.

Further, the claims are not limited by the form of the computer-readablemedia on which the instructions of the inventive process are stored. Forexample, the instructions may be stored on CDs, DVDs, in FLASH memory,RAM, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, hard disk or any other informationprocessing device with which the computing device communicates, such asa server or computer.

Further, the claims may be provided as a utility application, backgrounddaemon, or component of an operating system, or combination thereof,executing in conjunction with CPU 602, 608 and an operating system suchas Microsoft Windows 7, Microsoft Windows 10, UNIX, Solaris, LINUX,Apple MAC-OS, and other systems known to those skilled in the art.

The hardware elements in order to achieve the computing device may berealized by various circuitry elements, known to those skilled in theart. For example, CPU 602 or CPU 608 may be a Xenon or Core processorfrom Intel of America or an Opteron processor from AMD of America, ormay be other processor types that would be recognized by one of ordinaryskill in the art. Alternatively, the CPU 602, 608 may be implemented onan FPGA, ASIC, PLD or using discrete logic circuits, as one of ordinaryskill in the art would recognize. Further, CPU 602, 608 may beimplemented as multiple processors cooperatively working in parallel toperform the instructions of the inventive processes described above.

The computing device 600 in FIG. 6 also includes a network controller610, such as an Intel Ethernet PRO network interface card from IntelCorporation of America, for interfacing with the network 612. As can beappreciated, the network 612 can be a public network, such as theInternet, or a private network such as an LAN or WAN network, or anycombination thereof and can also include PSTN or ISDN sub-networks. Thenetwork 612 can also be wired, such as an Ethernet network, or can bewireless such as a cellular network including EDGE, 3G and 4G wirelesscellular systems. The wireless network can also be Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, orany other wireless form of communication that is known.

The computing device 600 further includes a display controller 614, suchas a NVIDIA GeForce GTX or Quadro graphics adaptor from NVIDIACorporation of America for interfacing with a display 616, embodied asthe LED display 306 in FIG. 3 . A general purpose I/O interface 618interfaces with a touch screen panel 620 which may be a part of thedisplay 616 or separate from the display 616. A sound controller 622 isalso provided in the computing device 600, such as Sound Blaster X-FiTitanium from Creative, to interface with speakers/microphone 624thereby providing sounds and/or music.

The general purpose storage controller 622 connects the storage device606 with communication bus 626, which may be an ISA, EISA, VESA, PCI, orsimilar, for interconnecting all of the components of the computingdevice 600. A description of the general features and functionality ofthe display 616 as well as the display controller 614, storagecontroller 628, the network controller 610, the sound controller 622,and the general purpose I/O interface 618 is omitted herein for brevityas these features are known.

The exemplary circuit elements described in the context of the presentdisclosure may be replaced with other elements and structureddifferently than the examples provided herein. Moreover, circuitryconfigured to perform features described herein may be implemented inmultiple circuit units (e.g., chips), or the features may be combined incircuitry on a single chipset. The above-described hardware descriptionis a non-limiting example of corresponding structure for performing thefunctionality described herein.

Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the presentdisclosure are possible in light of the above teachings. It is thereforeto be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, theinvention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically describedherein.

1. A convertible, multi-tasking cane, comprising: a tubular cane bodyhaving an internal cavity; a handle attached to a first end of thetubular cane body, wherein the handle is configured to convert to a seatupon actuation of a seat release mechanism; a base support attached to asecond end of the tubular cane body; an umbrella; a rechargeable batterylocated in the internal cavity, above the second end of the tubular canebody; and a tubular insulating structure overlapping a portion of thetubular cane body, the tubular insulating structure housing a pluralityof electronic devices.
 2. The convertible, multi-tasking cane of claim1, further comprising: a compass located on a surface of the tubularinsulating structure.
 3. The convertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 1,the handle comprising: a central plate located on the first end of thetubular cane body, wherein a plane of the central plate is perpendicularto a length axis of the tubular cane body; an opening defined in acenter of the central plate; a first rectangular metallic frame having afirst inner frame edge hingeably connected to a first side of thecentral plate; a second rectangular metallic frame having a second innerframe edge hingeably connected to a second side of the central plate,wherein the second side is opposite the first side; a first flexiblecovering attached to the first rectangular metallic frame; a secondflexible covering attached to the second rectangular metallic frame;wherein the handle is configured to form a hand grip when a first outerframe edge of the first rectangular metallic frame and a second outerframe edge of the second rectangular metallic frame are folded togethersuch that the first rectangular metallic frame and the secondrectangular metallic frame are perpendicular to the plane of the centralplate; and wherein the handle is configured to form the seat when thefirst outer frame edge of the first rectangular metallic frame and thesecond outer frame edge of the second rectangular metallic frame areunfolded so that the first outer frame edge and the second outer frameedge are in the plane of the central plate.
 4. The convertible,multi-tasking cane of claim 1, wherein the plurality of electronicdevices includes a microcontroller, an alarm unit, an LED display, aWIFI unit, a Bluetooth unit, an MP3 player, a USB port, a camera, aradio, an earphone jack, a plurality of LED units, a speaker, a powerinput port configured to supply power to recharge the rechargeablebattery, and a micro subscriber identity module (SIM) port.
 5. Theconvertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 4, wherein the microcontrolleris operatively connected to the alarm unit, the LED display, the WIFIunit, the Bluetooth unit, the MP3 player, the USB port, the camera, theradio, the earphone jack, the plurality of LED units, the speaker, therechargeable battery, and the micro SIM port.
 6. The convertible,multi-tasking cane of claim 5, further comprising: a geolocation (GPS)receiver configured to generate a location of the cane and a currenttime; and wherein the microcontroller is configured to display thelocation and time on the LED display and/or periodically generate alocation and time message to the Bluetooth unit.
 7. The convertible,multi-tasking cane of claim 5, further comprising: a camera switchconnected to the camera, the camera switch having a plurality ofsettings, wherein a first setting of the camera switch is configured toactuate the camera to take a picture; an LED projector connected to thecamera, wherein a second setting of the camera switch is configured toactuate the LED projector to project the picture; the LED displayconnected to the camera, wherein a third setting of the camera switch isconfigured to display the picture on the LED display; and a memorylocated within the microcontroller, wherein a fourth setting of thecamera switch is configured to store the picture in the memory.
 8. Theconvertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 7, further comprising an ON/OFFswitch configured to connect the rechargeable battery to or disconnectthe rechargeable battery from the microcontroller, respectively,wherein: a first set of LED units of the plurality of LED units islocated between an umbrella release switch and the rechargeable battery;a second set of LED units of the plurality of LED units is locatedbetween the handle and the microcontroller, wherein the first set of LEDunits and the second set of LED units turn on when the ON/OFF switch isin an ON mode; a first predator LED unit of the plurality of LED unitsis located adjacent to the first set of LED units; a second predator LEDunit of the plurality of LED units is located adjacent to the second setof LED units; and wherein the microcontroller is further configured to:detect the first setting of the camera switch, analyze the picture todetermine whether a predator is approaching; actuate the first predatorLED unit and the second predator LED unit to flash red light when apredator is approaching; and actuate the speaker to generate a noise ina decibel range of about 140 dB to about 200 dB based on the analysis ofthe picture.
 9. The convertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 5, furthercomprising: an opening defined at a center of the seat; the umbrellaincluding an umbrella shaft, a plurality of ribs connected to a ribholder, the rib holder connected to and surrounding a first end of theumbrella shaft, a flexible sheet attached to the plurality of ribs, anda rib support surrounding the umbrella shaft, wherein the rib support isconfigured to move over the umbrella shaft; and wherein the umbrella hasa first configuration where the plurality of ribs are folded against theumbrella shaft, the rib support is located at a first position and theumbrella shaft is enclosed within the internal cavity of the tubularcane body, and a second configuration where the umbrella shaft, theplurality of ribs and the rib support extend through the opening, theribs are extended away from the umbrella shaft by an angle in a range ofabout 60 degrees to about 90 degrees and the rib support is located at asecond position, wherein the first position is at a greater distancefrom an umbrella tip than the second position.
 10. The convertible,multi-tasking cane of claim 9, further comprising: a spring locatedwithin the internal cavity of the tubular cane body; a spring stopperlocated within the internal cavity between the spring and the umbrellashaft, wherein the spring stopper is configured to hold the spring in acompressed state in the first configuration and release the spring inthe second configuration; an umbrella lock located within the internalcavity between the spring and the rechargeable battery, wherein theumbrella lock is connected to the spring stopper and is configured torelease the spring stopper in the second configuration; and an umbrellarelease switch located within the internal cavity between the umbrellalock and the rechargeable battery, wherein the umbrella release switchis configured to actuate the umbrella lock.
 11. The convertible,multi-tasking cane of claim 10, wherein the umbrella release switch isactuated by a physical push of a release button positioned on theumbrella release switch, wherein the release button is located on anexterior of the tubular insulating structure.
 12. The convertible,multi-tasking cane of claim 10, wherein the microcontroller isconfigured to: receive a weather report through at least one of theBluetooth unit and the WiFi unit; analyze the weather report; determine,based on the analysis, whether a rain shower is predicted within apre-determined time period at a current location of the cane, notify auser regarding deployment of the umbrella when the rain shower ispredicted within the pre-determined time period; and actuate theumbrella release switch to place the umbrella in the secondconfiguration when the rain shower is predicted within thepre-determined time period.
 13. A method of using a convertible,multi-tasking cane, comprising: actuating an ON/OFF switch to turn ONthe convertible multi-tasking cane; walking while holding a handle ofthe convertible multi-tasking cane, a base of the convertiblemulti-tasking cane supported by a ground surface; sitting on a seatformed by unfolding the handle of the convertible multi-tasking canewhen not walking; and protecting, by an umbrella, a user from a rainshower or sunlight by actuating an umbrella release switch located onthe convertible multi-tasking cane to extend an umbrella shaft throughan opening defined at a center of the seat or the handle, causing aplurality of ribs connected to the umbrella shaft to extend upwards andout from the umbrella shaft, and unfurling a flexible sheet attached tothe plurality of ribs.
 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:inserting an earphone jack into an earphone port defined in theconvertible multi-tasking cane; turning on a radio switch located on asurface of the convertible multi-tasking cane; and listening to a radiolocated in a surface of the convertible multi-tasking cane while walkingor sitting on the seat.
 15. The method of claim 13, further comprising:inserting an earphone jack into an earphone port defined in theconvertible multi-tasking cane; turning on an MP3 player switch locatedon a surface of the convertible multi-tasking cane; and listening tomusic stored on an MP3 player located in a surface of the convertiblemulti-tasking cane while walking or sitting on the seat.
 16. The methodof claim 13, further comprising: actuating, by a camera switch, a camerato take a picture of a surrounding environment, the camera locatedwithin a tubular insulating structure overlapping a portion of a tubularcane body of the convertible multi-tasking cane; performing at least onestep of: displaying the picture on an LED display; displaying, by an LEDprojector, the picture on a surface of the surrounding environment;storing the picture in a memory of a microcontroller; wirelesslytransmitting the picture, by at least one of a micro subscriber identitymodule (SIM) card, a Bluetooth unit, and a WiFi unit.
 17. The method ofclaim 16, further comprising: determining, by the microcontroller, whena current time is nighttime; actuating a plurality of LED units to turnON; periodically actuating, by the camera switch, the camera to take thepicture of the surrounding environment, the camera located within thetubular insulating structure; analyzing the picture to determine whethera predator is approaching; actuating a first predator LED unit and asecond predator LED unit of the plurality of LED units to flash redlight based on the analysis; and actuating a speaker located on theconvertible multi-tasking cane to generate a noise in a decibel range ofabout 140 dB to about 200 dB based on actuating the first predator LEDunit and the second predator LED unit.
 18. The method of claim 16,further comprising: obtaining, by a geolocation (GPS), a currentlocation of the convertible multi-tasking cane and a current time;displaying the current location and current time on the LED displaylocated on the convertible multi-tasking cane; periodically generating,by the microcontroller, a current location and current time message;determining, by the microcontroller, when the current location deviatesfrom a map route stored in the microcontroller; actuating, by themicrocontroller, an alarm when a deviation of current location isdetermined; generating, by the microcontroller, instructions to guide auser to an expected location on the map route; broadcasting, by themicrocontroller, the instructions by actuating a speaker located withinthe tubular insulating structure; and wirelessly transmitting, by themicrocontroller, the current location, and the current time messageand/or the instructions by at least one of the Bluetooth unit, the SIMcard, and the WiFi unit.
 19. A convertible, multi-tasking cane system,comprising: a tubular cane body having an internal cavity; a handleattached to a first end of the tubular cane body, wherein the handle isconfigured to convert to a seat upon actuation of a seat releasemechanism; a base support attached to a second end of the tubular canebody; an umbrella having a folded configuration in which an umbrellashaft is enclosed within the internal cavity, umbrella ribs are foldedagainst the umbrella shaft, a rib support is located at a first positionand an open configuration in which the umbrella shaft, the ribs and therib support extend through an opening in the handle and/or the seat, theribs are extended away from the umbrella shaft by an angle in a range ofabout 60 degrees to about 90 degrees and the rib support is located at asecond position, wherein the first position is at a greater distancefrom an umbrella tip than the second position; a rechargeable batterylocated in the internal cavity, above the second end of the tubular canebody; a tubular insulating structure overlapping a portion of thetubular cane body, the tubular insulating structure housing a pluralityof electronic devices, the plurality of electronic devices including amicrocontroller, an alarm unit, an LED display, a WIFI unit, a Bluetoothunit, an MP3 player, a GPS receiver, a USB port, a camera, a radio, anearphone jack, a plurality of LED units, a speaker, a power input portconfigured to supply power to recharge the rechargeable battery, and amicro subscriber identity module (SIM) port; wherein the microcontrolleris operatively connected to the alarm unit, the LED display, the WIFIunit, the Bluetooth unit, the MP3 player, the GPS receiver, the USBport, the camera, the radio, the earphone jack, the plurality of LEDlights, the speaker, the rechargeable battery, and the micro SIM port;and wherein the microcontroller is configured to transmit and receivewireless communications through at least one of the WIFI unit, theBluetooth unit, the GPS receiver, and a SIM card inserted in the microSIM port.
 20. The convertible, multi-tasking cane system of claim 19,wherein the microcontroller is further configured to: obtain, by the GPSreceiver, a current location of the cane and a current time; display thecurrent location and the current time on the LED display located on thecane; periodically generate a current location and current time message;determine when the current location deviates from a map route stored ina memory of the microcontroller; actuate an alarm when a deviation ofcurrent location is determined; generate instructions to guide a user toan expected location on the map route; broadcast the instructions byactuating a speaker located within the tubular insulating structure; andwirelessly transmit the current location and the current time messageand/or the instructions to at least one of a smart phone, a remotemonitor, and a remote receiver.